Tech: Recording acoustic guitar onto computer

Subject: Tech: Recording acoustic guitar onto computer
From: Blissfully Ignorant
Date: 28 Dec 04 - 09:52 AM

I have cakewalk guitar tracks pro software, it says you plug the guitar into the computer to record...so how do i plug in an acoustic? I tried balancing a microphone next to the guitar, but it didn't work. Sorry if this is a really stupid question, i'm easily discombobulated :0)

Subject: RE: Tech: Recording acoustic guitar onto computer
From: BTMP
Date: 28 Dec 04 - 12:39 PM

B.I.: I also have Cakewalk's Gtr Trks Pro, and have recorded 5 complete CD projects, both solo and for the Bluegrass band I play in. For proper recording of acoustic instruments into your computer, you will need some sort of interface between a microphone and the computer.

I use a small, cheap Behringer board (there about $49 in Musiciansfriend), plug a mic into it, and route the board output into the microphone jack of my computer. You will need various adapters for this, easily obtained at Radio Shack.

Once this connection is made, you can adjust the board level to get the correct recording level in the GTPro.

If you are going to do a lot of recording, this setup, or one similar is a good low cost way to do it. You can then also plug in other things directly to the board: electric guitar, bass guitar, cassette/CD players, etc.

Subject: RE: Tech: Recording acoustic guitar onto computer
From: Blissfully Ignorant
Date: 28 Dec 04 - 12:43 PM

Thankyou, i'll look into that! :0)

Subject: RE: Tech: Recording acoustic guitar onto computer
From: GUEST,Ignorantly blissful
Date: 29 Dec 04 - 08:23 AM

Get the levels right at each stage of recording
Plugging straight in to your comp will work but it doesnt sound too good.
Get the levels right at each stage of recording
Whether you are using a pickup or a mike, try to use a preamp of some kind (an effects machine will work, a mixer is ok ) One studio in Bristol uses a 1950's valve amped tape recorder as a mike preamp!
Get the levels right at each stage of recording
Recording individual instruments in stereo improves the quality dramatically. Use two mikes if you've got them. Turn the sample rate up to 96.
Oh I nearly forgot...
Get the levels right at each stage of recording (Around, but never, ever exceeding, 0dB through every stage)

Subject: RE: Tech: Recording acoustic guitar onto computer
From: Blissfully Ignorant
Date: 29 Dec 04 - 12:48 PM

I found another method which is less discombobulating....i recorded the guitar onto tape, than hooked up the tape player to the computer. Thanks for the advice folks! :0)